Who will you nominate for the Pride in Breckland Awards 2015?

Breckland Council has launched its Pride of Breckland Awards 2015, which seek to recognise the unsung heroes who live and work in the district.

Residents are being encouraged to take a moment to nominate the person from the district who makes such a difference to them or whose contribution has made Breckland a special place to live.

There are nine diverse categories available, which offer opportunities to recognise those who have given up some of their free time to make the lives of others better, people who have shown incredible determination, and people who have achieved great things in their chosen field.

The finalists from each category will be invited to attend a glittering awards event in March to ensure they receive the recognition they deserve. Each of the winners will be presented with a trophy to celebrate their achievement.

Cllr Lynda Turner, Breckland's Executive Member for Community and Environmental Services, said: There are so many wonderful people living and working in Breckland and it is important that we take the time to recognise the difference they make to other people's lives.

This is the third Pride of Breckland awards that we've held and we are always touched by the fantastic examples of how local people have contributed to their communities; so if you know somebody who you think should be celebrated this time around, make sure you submit your nomination soon!

The categories are:

Carer of the Year

Carers do amazing work by providing endless support and improving people's quality of life and often the ability for people to stay within their own home. This category is open to both paid and voluntary carers who may have shown total selflessness in their care for others and made a real difference to the quality of life of other people.

Greener Schools

Recognises the commitment and contribution schools make in encouraging and understanding our local environment and engendering a wider appreciation of green issues. Examples could include: reducing and reusing waste; keeping the local community clean and tidy; preserving the environment and biodiversity of Breckland; encouraging growing your own vegetables.
Award sponsored by Serco

Outstanding Contribution to Sport

Open to athletes, clubs or volunteers in the sporting arena who have made significant achievements. Examples could include: a dedicated volunteer at a club; rewarding a new club or sporting activity in the district; an individual who is excelling in their sport.
Award sponsored by Parkwood Leisure

Good Friend/Neighbour

For an individual, couple or family whose actions have a positive impact on the lives of their friends and neighbours. Examples could include: being there in times of trouble; helping with household chores; providing vital support such as transport or looking after children.

Volunteer of the Year

In recognition of those who generously give up their time and energy without recognition or celebration. Examples could include: individuals who tirelessly help out at clubs and societies; an individual who raises money for charity; those who strive to improve the community they live in; those who make a positive difference to people's lives.

Outstanding Bravery

To recognise an individual who has shown great courage, perhaps by helping or saving the life of another, battling difficulties, or overcoming hardships.

Business of the Year

Breckland recognises the valuable contribution that the business community makes in making the district a better place to live. This category is open to businesses large or small which are operating in the Breckland area and who get involved in community life. Examples could include: sponsorship or support of local events; working with schools/apprenticeships/community; local jobs for local people.

Community Group of the Year

For any group of paid or voluntary people whose actions, strength and support has made a real difference in their community.

Lifetime Achievement

This award recognises an individual's exceptional and continued commitment to community life in Breckland over a period of time. Someone who has supported their community time and time again and made a real difference and commitment to others who live, work and learn in Breckland. This could include: community work; helping a neighbourhood; making positive changes that improve the quality of life for others.

Nominations can be made online at www.breckland.gov.uk or by requesting a hard copy form from any of Breckland's council offices. The closing date for nominations is Sunday, January 18, 2015.